We`re thrilled to share that we`ve added two significant agricultural properties to our growing patchwork of farmland in the Upper Valley!

🚜In Haverhill, Dale and Jackie Lewis conserved a 23-acre property near the Bedell Bridge State Park that is rented to @newmontfarm.

🚜And in Newbury, 3rd-generation farmer Gordon Huntington has conserved 189 acres of rich bottomland soil, which supports three farm operations — Gordon grows hay, leases 20 acres to @4cornersfarm for strawberries and vegetables, and Newmont Farm leases the balance.

These parcels of land play a critical role in our region`s food security, and we are proud to help ensure they remain protected and stewarded by our local farmers.

#uppervalleyvtnh #sustainableagriculture #conservation ...

Smile for the camera Mr. Kestrel! 📸🐦

This past week, staff from UVLT and @vinsraptors went to Brookmead Conservation Area to inspect the kestrel box for nesting activity and potentially band one of the adults. Luckily one of the adults (a male) was captured and the VINS biologists were able to place a numbered band on the leg of the bird. Banding birds is an important part of studying bird habits as it can help biologists track migratory patterns of the bird as well as keep an eye on overall health. In addition to banding, photos were taken of the kestrel’s coat. Back in the UVLT office, we determined that his name should be Rusty, after his beautiful reddish-brown coat. We hope that Rusty wasn’t too ruffled from the experience!

❗Disclaimer: This bird was handled for the purpose of scientific research under a federally authorized Bird Banding Permit issued by the U.S. Geological Survey and in accordance with all state permitting requirements.❗

#wildlife #birds_nature #nuts_about_birds #kestrel #kestrelfalcon #bird_captures #PlanetBirds #ConservationMatters #VermontWildlife #UVLT #NorwichVT ...